Hearings on a proposed Super Liquor store in Lake Hāwea concluded in Wānaka on Friday (November 14).

Keyrouz Holdings Ltd’s plans for a 300-square-metre store in Hāwea’s Longview subdivision attracted more than 500 objections from residents and health experts, who had the opportunity to voice their concerns in person during the three-day hearing.

The opposition centred on the risk that a new liquor outlet would increase alcohol-related harm in the small community.

Objectors cited national statistics on alcohol related harm as well as the findings of the 2023 Upper Clutha Youth Voice Survey, which found significant binge drinking among local teenagers.

Many also spoke from personal experience witnessing both teen and adult drinking.

The applicant also made its case for the Super Liquor outlet, which it said would fit in “really well” in Hāwea’s new commercial precinct. 

District Licensing Committee (DLC) members Chris Cooney, John Mann and Lyal Cocks have been tasked with deciding whether or not to issue an alcohol license for the Super Liquor, which already has resource consent.

They will consider written closing submissions once they are received. 

“Once the DLC has all final closing submissions it will then take time to assess all the information and write up its decision,” a Queenstown Lakes District Council spokesperson told the Wānaka App. 

“There is no timeframe prescribed in legislation within which it needs to release the decision – it’s up to the DLC and could be before Christmas or in the New Year.”

Once the decision is issued, it will be released to all parties. 

“If any parties don’t agree with parts of the decision and consider the DLC has erred in law they can lodge an appeal to the Alcohol Regulatory and Licensing Authority (ARLA),” the spokesperson said. 

“ARLA would then hold a public hearing by way of a rehearing of the matter, but no new information could be introduced.”

PHOTO: Supplied